SUMMARY: Canker sores bugging you? Check out some ways to fight back.

Posted: September 10, 2013

They can crop up after we bite our lip, from stress or acidic and spicy foods. Many of us know the feeling of a canker sore irritating our mouth, and how awkward we look when trying to meet someone new and smiling with half a mouth to avoid moving the hurt lip. Canker sores are one of the buggers of daily life. Luckily, there are a few tricks to help fight back.

Avoid acidic or spicy foods, the jalapeno sign on the menu This option may be more passive approach, but it'll definitely cut down on the amount of times you cringe and hold your lip after eating foods that sting the tiny ulcer. Sometimes, chewing sticks of cinnamon gum, munching on too much candy or eating oranges can burn the affected area. Make sure to eliminate these foods from your diet while the sore is still open, or cut down heavily on them if you find yourself having more chronic canker sores.

Honey, I have a canker sore Raw honey is considered a "super food" that bolsters immunity, and is great for canker sore treatment. It is anti-bacterial, antiseptic, antifungal and antibiotic - basically, it rocks. Topically, the never-spoil food helps treat the mouth ulcer. When applied every two days under a dry dressing, honey can help heal these mouth nuisances, cuts and even burns.

The good kind of soda Rinse your mouth with a solution of two cups baking soda and one cup water. This wash should help clean out your mouth and prevent the affected area from growing or gathering irritating food or bacteria on it.

Sweet numbing Over-the-counter topical treatments and gels can be useful to numb the pain, and ease you through meals. Apply them once or twice a day and let them do their work. Most do not expedite the actual healing process, but they'll definitely help you forget you have a sore.